Barcelona transfer plans dealt blow as 16-year-old target agrees on contract extension

There has been no shortage of talents coming out of South American football in recent years, with Brazil and Argentina, in particular, leading the way.

While Brazil have produced the likes of Vinicius, Endrick and Rodrygo, Argentina are not far behind either.

In fact, the Albiceleste might have already found their next big star in the form of Franco Mastantuono.

The young attacking midfielder has been making waves in Argentine football with his performances at River Plate.

At the age of just 16, he made a professional breakthrough, which has led to widespread interest across Europe.

Barcelona are among the clubs interested in the services of Mastantuono, as the Blaugrana look to shore up their ranks in the creative unit.

Bad news for Barcelona

However, Barça have been dealt a massive blow in their pursuit of Mastantuono, as the player is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with River Plate.

The next big star in Argentine football? (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

According to Mundo Deportivo, Mastantuono has finalised an agreement to extend his contract, which is originally set to expire in 2025.

Under the terms of the new contract, the Argentine whizkid will have a whopping €45 million release clause, which may even increase to €50 million. The deal should also extend his stay at River Plate until 2026.

While Barcelona might not be worried about the length of Mastantuono’s contract, the €45 million release clause could indeed price them out of a move.

The Catalans are not in a position to afford such a hefty price for any individual this summer, let alone a teenager with no experience of European football.

Barcelona will not be the only club impacted by Mastantuono’s new contract, as Real Madrid, too, were interested in the services of the Argentine whizkid.